Iraq has remained largely silent on Syria’s political developments following the appointment of Ahmad Al-Sharaa as transitional president. The Iraqi government emphasizes a cautious approach to ensure regional stability while supporting an inclusive Syrian political process. Significant reforms have been made by Al-Sharaa’s administration, which aims for improved foreign relations. Iraq’s security concerns and the complexity of the Syrian conflict influence its reserved stance as it monitors developments closely.
Iraq has maintained a cautious silence regarding the political shifts in Syria, particularly with the appointment of Ahmad Al-Sharaa as the transitional president. Analysts suggest that Baghdad will continue to adopt this measured approach, observing regional dynamics and the Syrian government’s reactions before establishing its official position. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani reiterated Iraq’s commitment to Syria’s territorial integrity and a supportive, inclusive political process without interference in internal affairs, reflecting a careful strategy since the fall of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime.
The new Syrian administration has undertaken significant reforms, including disbanding former regime military and security forces, abolishing the previous constitution, dissolving parliament, and dismantling the Baath Party. Al-Sharaa, while not detailing Syria’s foreign policy in his recent address, is backed by his Foreign Minister, Asaad Al-Shibani, who emphasized an intention to mitigate tensions in the Arab region and foster a leading role for Syria.
Moreover, the transitional Syrian government seeks to establish friendly relations with all nations, including Iraq. Syrian writer Bassem Suleiman highlighted that this administration aspires for balanced relations to focus on rebuilding the country, advocating for a reconciliatory approach with no desire to foster conflicts.
It is significant that Al-Sharaa, initially known as “Abu Muhammad Al-Jolani,” began his career with Al-Qaeda in Iraq and transitioned to forming “Jabhat Al-Nusra” in Syria. His history includes fighting alongside prominent militant leaders and subsequent imprisonment by U.S. forces before being released in 2008. Following his ascendance to leadership, Al-Sharaa resumed using his birth name and has emerged as a crucial ally to Iraq’s government amid the ongoing regional turmoil.
To maintain security along its border with Syria, Iraq has deployed extensive military resources and established fortified measures, highlighting its prevailing security concerns reflected in its political stance. Despite this proactive approach, Mukhtar Al-Musawi, a member of Iraq’s Foreign Relations Committee, expressed uncertainty regarding Syria’s political clarity under the new administration, indicating a preference for caution while evaluating future relations.
Dr. Ihsan Al-Shammari noted pivotal factors influencing Iraq’s official stance on Syria, including past hostilities expressed by Al-Sudani’s government towards Al-Sharaa, unresolved security coordination issues, and Iraq’s desire not to jeopardize relationships with Iran. Given these complexities, it is unsurprising that Iraq remains prudent following Al-Sharaa’s appointment, although there is a welcome for his transitional leadership and a push for a comprehensive political dialogue in Syria.
The article discusses Iraq’s cautious response to the political developments in Syria following the appointment of Ahmad Al-Sharaa as its transitional president. It highlights Iraq’s strategic priorities to preserve Syria’s territorial integrity, avoid interference in its domestic politics, and closely monitor the evolving situation as fears of security and stability persist in the region. The complexities of the Syrian conflict continue to influence Iraq’s foreign policy decisions, reflecting an intricate balance of relationships among regional players.
In conclusion, Iraq’s silence on recent Syrian developments stems from its strategic priorities prioritizing national security and regional stability. As the new Syrian administration, led by Ahmad Al-Sharaa, seeks to establish peaceful relations, Iraq remains cautious, emphasizing careful evaluation and non-interference. Ultimately, ongoing complexities in both domestic and regional politics will dictate the evolution of Iraq-Syria relations as both nations navigate their respective political landscapes.
Original Source: shafaq.com
